Method and apparatus to collect object identification data during operation of a vehicle and analysis of such data

ABSTRACT

System and method for collecting object identification data from a plurality of objects that interact with a vehicle during operation of the vehicle, where the vehicle interacts with specific objects at specific geographical positions. An identification sensor is coupled to a geographical position sensor, and whenever an object is identified a record is generated, the record including the identification of the object, the position of the vehicle when the interaction between the object and the vehicle occurs, and the time of the interaction. Exemplary objects include passengers, containers, and documents. Exemplary interactions include loading/unloading an object from the vehicle, boarding a passenger, unloading a passenger, transferring a bulk material from the vehicle into a specific container, and/or transferring a bulk material from a specific container to the vehicle. The record may also include additional data about a parameter of the object (such as the object&#39;s weight, volume, or temperature).

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of prior co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 12/724,232, filed on Mar. 15, 2010, which itself isa continuation-in-part of prior co-pending application Ser. No.11/675,502, filed on Feb. 15, 2007 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,680,595on Mar. 16, 2010, the benefit of the filing dates of which are herebyclaimed under 35 U.S.C. §120. Prior co-pending application Ser. No.11/675,502 itself is a continuation-in-part of prior co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 11/425,222, filed on Jun. 20, 2006, and issued asU.S. Pat. No. 7,564,375 on Jul. 21, 2009, the benefit of the filing dateof which is hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. §120.

BACKGROUND

As the cost of sensors, communications systems and navigational systemshas dropped, operators of commercial and fleet vehicles now have theability to collect a tremendous amount of data about the vehicles thatthey operate, including geographical position data collected during theoperation of the vehicle.

Vehicle fleet operators often operate vehicles along predefined andgenerally invariant routes. For example, buses frequently operate onpredefined routes, according to a predefined time schedule (for example,along a route that is geographically, as well as temporally defined).Migrating route data from one software platform to another softwareplatform can be a tedious task.

It would be desirable to provide such fleet operators with additionaltools for moving data between different software platforms, and forcollecting and analyzing data (such as Global Positioning System (GPS)data, as well as other route related data) collected from vehiclestraversing a predefined route.

SUMMARY

One concept disclosed herein is the collection of object identificationdata during the operation of a vehicle, where the vehicle interacts withthe object at a definable geographical position. An identificationsensor is coupled to a geographical position sensor, and whenever anobject is identified a record is generated, the record including theidentification of the object, the position of the vehicle when theinteraction between the object and the vehicle occurs, and the time ofthe interaction. Exemplary (but not limiting) objects that areidentified include passengers, containers (such as pallets, packages,boxes, envelopes), and documents. Many different types of interactionsare possible, including, but not limited to, loading an object (such asa parcel, document, or container) into the vehicle, unloading an object(such as a parcel, document, or container) from the vehicle, boarding apassenger (the object) onto the vehicle, unloading a passenger (onceagain, the passenger being the object) from the vehicle, transferring abulk material (such as a solid, liquid or compressed gas) from thevehicle into a specific container (the container being the object),and/or transferring a bulk material (such as a solid, liquid orcompressed gas) from a specific container (the container being theobject) to the vehicle. The record may also include additional dataabout a parameter of the object (for example, in some embodiments, itwill be useful to include the object's weight in the record, or theweight/volume of a material being transferred to or from the vehicle toa specific container). Such a data record is referred to herein and inthe claims that follow as object identification (ID) and location data,and/or object ID encoded position data (encoded in the sense that theobject data is combined with the position data). In some embodiments,the object ID and location data is stored at the vehicle for transfer toa remote computing device at a later time, and in other embodiments, theobject ID and location data is wirelessly transmitted to a remotecomputing device during operation of the vehicle. The term “objectidentification data” is intended to refer to data that identifies anobject with which a vehicle interacts. For example, for a passenger,object identification data can include the passenger's name, or apassenger number (or an alphanumeric code or other type of code) thatuniquely identifies an individual. For other objects, the objectidentification data is generally a numeric or alphanumeric code thatuniquely identifies the object.

Broadly speaking, position data from the vehicle is collected as thevehicle travels to the plurality of different locations, the positiondata identifying a specific geographical location of the vehicle at aspecific point in time (thus, the vehicle position data is timeindexed). Time indexed object identification data is collected as thevehicle interacts with objects at various locations visited by thevehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle traverses a generallyinvariant route (such as a bus route), while in other embodiments thevehicle traverses a variable route (such as a parcel delivery vehicle).In an exemplary embodiment, the time indexing function is implemented bythe geographical position sensing system. Periodically, the geographicalposition sensing system generates a record that documents the currenttime and current geographical position of the vehicle. Whenever theidentification sensor identifies an object, the identification data issent to the geographical position sensing system, which either appendsthe identification data to the most current record, or generates a newrecord that documents the identity of the object, the current time andthe current geographical position, thereby generating the object ID andlocation data. It should thus be recognized that the set of locationdata collected by the geographical position sensing system duringoperation of the vehicle will also include object identification data atthose points in time at which the vehicle interacts with an object thathas been tagged in some way with a unique identifier that can bedetected by the object identification sensor. Exemplary tags or tokensinclude optical codes (such as bar codes and other opticallyrecognizable codes), radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, andmagnetic tags/magnetic strips. It should be understood that the set oflocation data collected by the geographical position sensing systemduring operation of the vehicle (which at some time points includes onlylocation data, and at other time points includes location data andobject identification data) is collectively referred to herein as theobject ID and location data. Such object ID and location data areconveyed to a remote computing device for storage/processing, either inreal-time (i.e., while the vehicle is being operated, such that thevehicle requires a transmitter to convey the data to the remotecomputing device) or at some point after the vehicle has traversed aroute and collected the different types of data (the position data andthe object identification data). The term real-time is not intended toimply the data is transmitted instantaneously, rather the data iscollected over a relatively short period of time (over a period ofseconds or minutes), and transmitted to the remote computing device on aongoing basis, as opposed to storing the data at the vehicle for anextended period of time (hour or days), and transmitting an extendeddata set to the remote computing device after the data set has beencollected. Transmitting the object ID and location data at a later time,rather than in real time, is encompassed by the concepts disclosedherein, although real-time data transmission is likely to be popularwith users. Note that transferring the object ID and location data at alater time can be achieved without requiring the vehicle to include awireless transmitter (i.e., the object ID and location data can betransferred via a hardwire connection to either the remote computingdevice or an intermediate data collection device that is coupled to thevehicle to extract the object ID and location data, which is thenconveyed to remote computing device).

With respect to the remote computing device, in a preferred but notlimiting embodiment, the time indexed object ID and location data areavailable in a networked computing environment. In at least oneembodiment, the object ID and location data are stored by a companyoffering data management services to its clients, and clients can accessthe object ID and location data for each of their vehicles.

The object ID and location data will have a number of uses. In thecontext of objects being passengers, the object ID and location data canbe used by school bus operators to provide parents with data about whenand where their children entered and exited a school bus. The object IDand location data can also be used to alert drivers when studentsattempt to get off the bus at some location other than their normalstop. The object ID and location data can be used to provide proof ofdelivery (or pick up) of parcels, documents, and other objects.Historical object ID and location data for generally invariant routes(such as refuse collection routes and school bus routes) can be used totrain new drivers, where historical object ID and location data isloaded onto the vehicle before the route is traversed, and that data isused to alert the driver of what objects (such as refuse containers orstudents) are associated with specific geographical locations in theroute.

In addition to being implemented as a method, the concepts disclosedherein can also be implemented as a non-transitory memory medium storingmachine instructions that when executed by a processor implement themethod, and by a system for implementing the method. In such a system,the basic elements include a vehicle that is to be operated by a vehicleoperator, a position data collection unit (such as a GPS trackingdevice), an object identification sensor (such as a token reader), adata link (which can be integrated into the GPS unit), and a remotecomputing device. In general, the remote computing device can beimplemented by a computing system employed by an entity operating afleet of vehicles. Entities that operate vehicle fleets can thus usesuch computing systems to track and process data relating to theirvehicle fleet. It should be recognized that these basic elements can becombined in many different configurations to achieve the exemplarymethod discussed above. Thus, the details provided herein are intendedto be exemplary, and not limiting on the scope of the concepts disclosedherein.

Identification of objects can be accomplished by a using reader to scana token attached to the object. Exemplary tokens include optical codes(such as bar codes), radio frequency identification tags (RFID), andmagnetic strips. Readers can be handheld devices, or when appropriatecan be attached to the vehicle. For example, RFID tags readers could beattached to the vehicle proximate a door used to load or unload thevehicle, to automatically interrogate each RFID tagged item loaded ontoor unloaded from the vehicle. Generally it will be preferable to recordboth loading and unloading of an object, although the concepts disclosedherein encompass embodiments where data relating to only loading orunloading is collected. Where the object is a person (i.e., apassenger), the person will be issued a token to be carried with them asthey enter (or exit) the vehicle. In some cases, it maybe desirable toidentify a person that interacts with the vehicle even if the person isnot a passenger (or is not entering or exiting the vehicle). Such aperson might be tasked with delivering something to the vehicle orservicing the vehicle.

With respect to identifying passengers, a reader can be used to read atoken (such as a ticket or rider pass) when a person enters or exits avehicle. Generally it will be preferable to record both entry and exit,although the concepts disclosed herein encompass embodiments where datarelating to only entry or exit is determined. In an exemplary but notlimiting embodiment, a magnetic card reader is used to scan passengercards as they enter or exit a vehicle. A particularly useful applicationof this type of object ID and position data tracking is to enable schoolbus operators to collect ridership data about students, tracking whereand when students enter and exit a school bus. Such historical data canbe used for training purposes whenever a driver is assigned a new route,as the historical data can be used to teach the driver which childrenget on and off at a particular stop. Once such historical data has beencollected, if desired, the data can be used to prevent children fromgetting off at an incorrect stop (the token reader will automaticallycheck the historical data, and if that child attempts to get off at astop that is not part of the historical data for that child, an alertcan be issued to the driver).

While the above noted method is preferably implemented by a processor(such as computing device implementing machine instructions to implementthe specific functions noted above), note that such a method can also beimplemented using a custom circuit (such as an application specificintegrated circuit).

In addition to object identification data (i.e., data that uniquelyidentifies the object), many different types of object data can becollected. The following types of additional object data are intended tobe exemplary, rather than limiting. Time indexing can be achieved byincluding a time stamp with the object data as the data is collected bythe object identification sensor, or the time stamp can be provided bythe position sensing system, generally as discussed above.

A first type of additional object data that can be collected duringoperation of the vehicle is a weight of the object. An exemplaryembodiment of a vehicle collecting object ID and location data thatincludes weight is a refuse truck. In this embodiment, each refusecontainer serviced by the vehicle is tagged with a token that isdetected by the identification sensor as the contents of the refusecontainer is loaded into the vehicle. In an exemplary but not limitingembodiment, the loading arms include an identification sensor that readsa token labeling each container as the containers are manipulated by theloading arms. The loading arms are also equipped with weight sensors,that determines the weight of the refuse emptied from the container.Thus, the object ID and location data in this embodiment can be used toidentify when a container was emptied, where the container was locatedwhen it was emptied, and how much refuse was removed. That data iscollected automatically, and can be used to provide proof of service,and the weight function maybe used for billing purposes if the client isto be billed by weight. Recycling containers can be tracked and weighedin a similar manner. Historical data about containers and position canbe used for training purposes whenever a new driver is assigned to anexisting route, as the historical data can be used to teach the newdriver what containers are usually serviced at a particular location.

A second type of additional object data that can be collected duringoperation of the vehicle is volume. An exemplary embodiment of a vehiclecollecting object ID and location data that includes volume is a liquidfuel or compressed gas delivery truck. In this embodiment, each fuel orgas container serviced by the vehicle is tagged with a token that isdetected by the identification sensor as the contents of the truck isoffloaded into the container. In an exemplary but not limitingembodiment, the connector used to fluidly couple the vehicle to thecontainer includes an identification sensor that reads a token labelingeach container. The identification sensor is coupled to a flow sensor ortank level in the vehicle which keeps track of how much product isdelivered. That volume data, as well as the container identificationdata, is sent to the vehicle's geographical position sensing system asthe container is filled. Thus, the object ID and location data in thisembodiment can be used to identify when a container was filled, wherethe container was located when it was filled, and how much volume ofproduct was delivered by the vehicle. That data is collectedautomatically, and can be used to provide proof of service, and thevolume function may be used for billing purposes if the client is to bebilled by volume. It should be noted that such liquid or compressed gasdeliveries can also be tracked by weight. Related embodiments utilizedata input devices to enable vehicle operators to manually entercontainer identifications and product weights/volumes into a processoror computing device that combines the weight/volume data and containerID data with the vehicle position data to generate the object ID andlocation data.

A third type of additional object data that can be collected duringoperation of the vehicle is object temperature. An exemplary embodimentof a vehicle collecting object ID and location data that includestemperature is a produce delivery truck. In an exemplary but notlimiting embodiment, the temperature of each produce container deliveredby the vehicle is measured as the container is loaded or unloaded fromthe vehicle. That temperature data, as well as the containeridentification data, is sent to the vehicle's geographical positionsensing system as the container is loaded or unloaded. Thus, the objectID and location data in this embodiment can be used to identify when acontainer was loaded and/or unloaded, where the container/vehicle waslocated when the container was loaded and/or unloaded, and thetemperature of the container. That data is collected, and can be used toprovide proof of service, and the temperature function may be used forquality assurance purposes if the client asserts that poor productquality was caused by improper temperature conditions in transit.Related embodiments simply measure the temperature of the cargo area ofthe vehicle, rather than measuring the temperature of each container.

This Summary has been provided to introduce a few concepts in asimplified form that are further described in detail below in theDescription. However, this Summary is not intended to identify key oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter.

DRAWINGS

Various aspects and attendant advantages of one or more exemplaryembodiments and modifications thereto will become more readilyappreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description, when taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a high level logic diagram showing exemplary overall methodsteps implemented in accord with the concepts disclosed herein tocollect time indexed object ID encoded position data;

FIG. 2 is an exemplary functional block diagram showing the basicfunctional components used to implement the method steps of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing method steps implemented in an exemplaryembodiment in which time indexed object ID encoded position data isanalyzed to determine at least one parameter of an interaction between auniquely labeled object and a vehicle;

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary computing devicethat can be employed to implement some of the method steps disclosedherein;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing method steps implemented in an exemplaryembodiment in which time indexed object ID encoded position data is usedto help an operator of a vehicle manage interactions between the vehicleand objects at specified locations;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary functional block diagram showing the basicfunctional components used to implement the method steps of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a school bus modified to implement theconcepts disclosed herein, to collect and use object ID encoded positiondata;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a delivery truck modified to implementthe concepts disclosed herein, to collect and use object ID encodedposition data;

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a refuse truck modified to implementthe concepts disclosed herein, to collect and use object ID encodedposition data;

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a fuel truck modified to implement theconcepts disclosed herein, to collect and use object ID encoded positiondata; and

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing the basic functionalcomponents used to implement a handheld identification sensor, which canbe used by a vehicle operator to collect object identification data.

DESCRIPTION Figures and Disclosed Embodiments are not Limiting

Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced Figures of thedrawings. It is intended that the embodiments and Figures disclosedherein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.Further, it should be understood that any feature of one embodimentdisclosed herein can be combined with one or more features of any otherembodiment that is disclosed, unless otherwise indicated.

FIG. 1 is a high level flow chart showing the overall method stepsimplemented in accord with one aspect of the concepts disclosed herein,to collect object ID and location data (otherwise referred to herein asobject ID encoded position data). In a block 10, a vehicle is equippedwith geographical position sensors (such as a GPS unit), so thatgeographical position data can be collected when the vehicle is beingoperated. In a block 12, the vehicle is equipped with an objectidentification sensor capable of uniquely identifying labeled objectsthat interact with the vehicle during operation of the vehicle. Ingeneral, the object identification sensor detects or reads a tokenattached to the object (or carried by the object, where the object is aperson). Exemplary, but not limiting, object identification sensorsinclude bar code readers, optical code readers reading optical codesother than simple bar codes, RFID tag readers, and magnetically encodeddata readers. Other technologies that enable tokens or unique objectlabels to be identified are encompassed by the concepts disclosedherein. The object identification sensor can be integrated into thevehicle, integrated into a portion of the vehicle that interacts withthe object, or provided as a hand held unit to be operated by thevehicle operator, as well as any combinations thereof. In a block 14,objects that interact with the vehicle are labeled with a token, such asa bar code (or some other type of optical code), an RFID tag, or amagnetically encoded token (such as a magnetic strip used in creditcards). Preferably, the tokens are both unique and relativelyinexpensive, such that large numbers of objects can be labeled, withoutundue expense. The objects can include objects that will be loaded ontoor unloaded from the vehicle, such as container (including but notlimited to parcels, packages, boxes, barrels, and drums), pallets, mail,letters, documents, and people (who will generally carry a token). Theobjects can also include objects disposed at locations the vehicle willvisit, such as recycling containers, refuse containers, and bulkmaterial storage containers (including but not limited to fuel storagetanks and compressed gas storage tanks).

In a block 16, location data (such as GPS data, recognizing that otherlocation tracking systems are known, and the term GPS is intended to beexemplary of a position tracking system, and not limiting) is collectedwhile the vehicle is in operation. The location data is time indexed,meaning that the location data being collected is the location of thevehicle at a particular point in time. While the vehicle is inoperation, and when the object identification sensor detects a labeledobject (as indicated by a decision block 18), the object ID data isadded to the time indexed GPS data, as indicated by a block 20. In someembodiments, the object identification sensor is always enabled, anddetection of labeled objects occurs automatically when the labeledobject and the object identification sensor are proximate (or in thecase of a magnetic card reader type sensor, when the card is swipedthrough the reader). In other embodiments, such as with a hand heldobject identification sensor, the object identification sensor must beenabled by the vehicle operator, and detection of labeled objects occurswhen the vehicle operator brings the labeled object and the objectidentification sensor into proximity of one another.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of exemplary functional componentsthat can be employed to implement the method steps of FIG. 1. Thecomponents include a GPS unit 22, a transmitter 24, which may also havea corresponding receiver—not shown (or other data link), an object IDsensor 26 and a remote computing device 28 (generally as describedabove). It should be recognized that many GPS units are available thatalready incorporate a transmitter, such that a separate transmitter maynot be required. It should be understood that the concepts disclosedherein can be used with other types of geographical positionsensors/systems, and the use of the term GPS is intended to beexemplary, rather than limiting. It should be understood that GPS unit22 includes a processor that can accept object ID data from object IDsensor 26, and combine the object ID data with the GPS data, to generatethe object ID encoded position data. While not specifically shown, itshould be understood that a separate processor (i.e., a processorseparate from the GPS unit) can be used to combine the object ID data togenerate the object ID encoded position data before the object IDencoded position data is transmitted to the remote computing device withtransmitter/data link 24.

Referring once again to FIG. 2, note that power components have not beenspecifically shown, although it should be understood that suchcomponents will be utilized to provide electrical power to the GPS, IDsensor, data link, and remote computer.

FIG. 3 is a high level flow chart showing the overall method stepsimplemented in accord with another exemplary embodiment for using objectID encoded position data collected during operation of a vehicleequipped with an object ID sensor and a GPS sensor. In a block 30, theobject ID encoded position data is collected, generally as discussedabove in connection with FIG. 1. In a block 32, the object ID encodedposition data is transferred from the vehicle to a remote computingdevice via a data link (such as a hard wired data link, a wireless datalink, or a portable memory media). As generally discussed above, otherobject data (such as weight, volume and/or temperature) can also beadded to the object ID encoded position data. In a block 34, the remotecomputing device (or some other computing device that the object IDencoded position data is transferred to, or some other computing devicethat is provided access to the object ID encoded position data) is useddetermine at least one characteristic of an interaction between alabeled object and the vehicle. One such characteristic that can bedetermined is to identify at what time the vehicle and a specificlabeled object interacted, by searching the object ID encoded positiondata as a function of the specific object. Another such characteristicthat can be determined is to identify at what location the vehicle and aspecific labeled object interacted, by searching the object ID encodedposition data as a function of the specific object. Yet another suchcharacteristic that can be determined is to identify any labeled objectthat interacted with the vehicle at a specific location, by searchingthe object ID encoded position data as a function of the specificlocation. The object ID encoded position data includes time, location,and object identity as minimum elements, and the artisan of ordinaryskill will recognize that many different analyses of the object IDencoded position data can be performed by defining one or more of thoseminimum elements as fixed or variable search parameters. As noted above,in some embodiments the object ID encoded position data will alsoinclude additional object data (exemplary types of additional objectdata include weight, volume, and temperature), and where the object IDencoded position data includes such additional object data, additionalsearch queries of the object ID encoded position data are possible. Forexample, a billing function could be implemented where weight or volumeassociated with a specific object are retrieved from the object IDencoded position data and used to bill a client.

In general, analysis of the object ID encoded position data will becarried out by a remote computing device. The remote computing device inat least one embodiment comprises a computing system controlled oraccessed by the fleet operator. The remote computing device can beoperating in a networked environment, and in some cases, may be operatedby a third party under contract with the fleet operator to perform suchservices. FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an exemplary computing system250 suitable for use in implementing the method of FIG. 3 (i.e., forexecuting block 34 of FIG. 3). Exemplary computing system 250 includes aprocessing unit 254 that is functionally coupled to an input device 252and to an output device 262, e.g., a display (which can be used tooutput a result to a user, although such a result can also be stored).Processing unit 254 comprises, for example, a central processing unit(CPU) 258 that executes machine instructions for carrying out ananalysis of the object ID encoded position data, generally as discussedabove. The machine instructions implement functions generally consistentwith those described above with respect to block 34 of FIG. 3. CPUssuitable for this purpose are available, for example, from IntelCorporation, AMD Corporation, Motorola Corporation, and other sources,as will be well known to those of ordinary skill in this art.

Also included in processing unit 254 are a random access memory (RAM)256 and non-volatile memory 260, which can include read only memory(ROM) and may include some form of memory storage, such as a hard drive,optical disk (and drive), etc. These memory devices are bi-directionallycoupled to CPU 258. Such storage devices are well known in the art.Machine instructions and data are temporarily loaded into RAM 256 fromnon-volatile memory 260. Also stored in the non-volatile memory are anoperating system software and ancillary software. While not separatelyshown, it will be understood that a generally conventional power supplywill be included to provide electrical power at voltage and currentlevels appropriate to energize computing system 250.

Input device 252 can be any device or mechanism that facilitates userinput into the operating environment, including, but not limited to, oneor more of a mouse or other pointing device, a keyboard, a microphone, amodem, or other input device. In general, the input device will be usedto initially configure computing system 250, to achieve the desiredprocessing (i.e., analysis of the object ID encoded position data).Configuration of computing system 250 to achieve the desired processingincludes the steps of loading appropriate processing software intonon-volatile memory 260, and launching the processing application (e.g.,loading the processing software into RAM 256 for execution by the CPU)so that the processing application is ready for use. Output device 262generally includes any device that produces output information, but willmost typically comprise a monitor or computer display designed for humanvisual perception of output. Use of a conventional computer keyboard forinput device 252 and a computer display for output device 262 should beconsidered as exemplary, rather than as limiting on the scope of thissystem. Data link 264 is configured to enable object ID encoded positiondata to be input into computing system 250 for subsequent analysis.Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that manytypes of data links can be implemented, including, but not limited to,universal serial bus (USB) ports, parallel ports, serial ports, inputsconfigured to couple with portable memory storage devices, FireWireports, infrared data ports, wireless data communication such as Wi-Fiand Bluetooth™, network connections via Ethernet ports, and otherconnections that employ the Internet.

It should be recognized that processors can be implemented as generalpurpose processors, where the functions implemented by the processor arechangeable or customizable using machine instructions (i.e., software).Processors can also be implemented as customized hardware circuits,where the functions implemented are fixed by the design of the circuit(such processors are sometimes referred to as application specificintegrated circuits). The flexibility of software controlled processorsoften results in software based processors being selected over hardwarebased processors, although it should be understood that the conceptsdisclosed herein can be implemented using both software based processorsand hardware based processors.

FIG. 5 is a high level logic diagram showing exemplary overall methodsteps implemented in accord with the concepts disclosed herein, andsummarized in the Summary of Invention section above, to utilize objectID encoded position data to facilitate planned interactions between avehicle and objects as specific geographical positions. Such a techniquecan be used to enhance such interactions, as well as to train newoperators to understand vehicle/object interactions over predefinedroutes (such as school bus routes, refuse collection routes, and productdelivery routes; such routes being exemplary, and not limiting). In ablock 36, object ID encoded position data is provided, the object IDencoded position data correlating a specific object with a specificlocation (and if desired, to a specific time, although time is not arequired element in this embodiment). The object ID encoded positiondata that is provided can be data collected by the vehicle generally asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 1, or can be generated bycombining predefined object ID data and position data together (forexample, a dispatcher managing a school bus or delivery route couldcompile the data and ensure the data is provided to the vehicle). Asdiscussed in greater detail below, the provided object ID encodedposition data is stored in a memory accessible by the vehicle (or aprocessor associated with the vehicle) during operation of the vehicle.In a block 38, the current location of the vehicle is monitored (using aGPS unit or equivalent device). In a block 40, the current position ofthe vehicle is compared to the provided object ID encoded position data,and an indication (such as a display or audile alert, noting that suchindications are exemplary, rather than limiting) is provided to theoperator of the vehicle whenever the object ID encoded position dataindicates that an interaction with a specific object is to occur at thecurrent location of the vehicle. The artisan of ordinary skill willrecognize that the indication can be provided as soon as the vehicleapproaches an interaction location specified in the object ID encodedposition data, to provide the operator of the vehicle reasonable advancenotice. The indication will minimally identify the specific object thatwill interact with the vehicle at the specified location, and mayinclude additional details as necessary to facilitate the interaction.For example, if the interaction is the delivery of a bulk material to astorage tank, the storage tank being the specified object, instructionsas to a quantity of bulk material to deliver, or detailed instructionsregarding material transfer or accessing the storage tank can beprovided.

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of exemplary functional componentsincluded in a vehicle employed to implement the method steps of FIG. 5.A vehicle implementing the method includes a GPS unit 42 (which in atleast some embodiments, includes a transmitter so that object ID encodedposition data collected by the vehicle during its present operationalstate can be generated and conveyed to a remote computing device,generally as described in connection with FIG. 1, although it should berecognized that a GPS unit without a transmitter can be coupled with atransmitter or other data link to achieve similar functionality; as wellas recognizing that the vehicle could be configured to only use objectID encoded position data stored in a memory 48 to facilitateinteractions with objects, as being opposed to collecting object IDencoded position data during the current operation cycle of the vehicleas well). GPS unit 42 is coupled to processor 44 (noting that processor44 may be part of the GPS unit itself, as opposed to a separate device).Processor 44 is also logically coupled to memory 48 (in which object IDencoded position data defining specific locations where interactionswith specific objects are expected are stored), as well as a display 46(or other output device, such as a speaker) used to alert the vehicleoperator that the vehicle is approaching or has reached a geographicalposition where the object ID encoded position data stored in memory 48indicates an interaction between the vehicle and a specific labeledobject is to occur.

As discussed above, the expected interaction can encompass differentinteractions between the vehicle and a labeled object, including but notlimited to, picking up a passenger (where the passenger is the labeledobject, or rather carries with them a token that can be read by theidentification sensor and thereby uniquely identifies them), droppingoff a passenger (where the passenger is the labeled object, or rathercarries with them a token that can be read by the identification sensorand thereby uniquely identifies them), picking up an object (such as aparcel, package, container, letter, or document), delivering an object(such as a parcel, package, container, letter, or document), andservicing an object (such as a container or piece of equipment) disposedat the specified location. In particular, servicing an object includes,but is not limited to, removing refuse from a labeled container,removing recyclables from a labeled container, removing refuse from acontainer at a location that is labeled (i.e., the token is attached toa location where the container is disposed, as opposed to being attachedto the container itself), removing recyclables from a container at alocation that is labeled (i.e., the token is attached to a locationwhere the container is disposed, as opposed to being attached to thecontainer itself), transferring a bulk material (such as a solidmaterial, a liquid, or a compressed gas) to a labeled container,transferring a bulk material (such as a solid material, a liquid, or acompressed gas) to a container at a location that is labeled (i.e., thetoken is attached to a location where the container is disposed, asopposed to being attached to the container itself), transferring a bulksolid material to a location that is labeled (i.e., the token isattached to a location, and there is no container, the bulk solidmaterial simply being delivered to the location), and having the vehicleoperator perform a service call on a piece of equipment or a structureat the specified location, where either or both the object beingserviced or the location is labeled with a token. Those of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize that the servicing of structures and/orequipment encompasses services performed by skilled tradesmen,including, but not limited to, plumbers, electricians, carpenters,technicians specializing in servicing specific types of equipment(including but not limited to computers, heating and ventilationequipment, construction equipment, and vehicles), and techniciansresponsible for other types of repair and maintenance functions.

In an exemplary, but not limiting embodiment, display 46 is used toinform the vehicle operator that the vehicle is approaching or hasarrived at a location where an interaction between the vehicle and alabeled object (or labeled location, as noted above) is expected. Thedisplay will minimally identify the object, and in some embodiments canbe used to provide more detailed information about the interaction. Forexample, where the interaction is a service call, details about thespecific service required may be provided (i.e., replace a faultycomponent in a piece of equipment, or perform a specific type ofscheduled maintenance on a piece of equipment, such services beingexemplary and not limiting).

A dashed block 50 around GPS 42, processor 44, and display 46 isintended to indicate that in some embodiments, those three elements willbe combined into a single device. It should be recognized that theconcepts disclosed herein encompass the use of individual devices toimplement each of GPS 42, processor 44, and display 46, as wellembodiments where the functions of one or more of GPS 42, processor 44,and display 46 (and memory 48) are implemented by a common device.

Referring once again to FIG. 6, data link and power components have notbeen specifically shown, although it should be understood that suchcomponents will be utilized to provided electrical power to the GPS,processor, display and memory, and some type of data link will be usedto load the previously generated object ID encoded position data intothe memory.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a school bus modified to implement theconcepts disclosed herein, to collect and/or use object ID encodedposition data, where the object interacting with the vehicle is astudent (i.e., a passenger) carrying a token that can be detected by theobject identification sensor. Where the bus is configured to collectobject ID encoded position data during operation of the bus, then thebus will include the functional elements discussed in connection withFIG. 2 (except the remote computing device, which of course is remotefrom the bus). Where the bus is configured to use previously generatedobject ID encoded position data to facilitate transportation of students(such as training a new driver to understand which students get on andoff at what stop), generally as discussed above in connection with FIG.5, then the bus will include the functional elements discussed inconnection with FIG. 6. It should be recognized that the conceptsdisclosed herein encompass buses that perform both the methods discussedabove in connection with FIGS. 1 and 5, and such buses will include thefunctional components of both FIGS. 2 and 6 (again, except for theremote computing device).

Referring to FIG. 7, as shown, bus 52 is configured to implement themethod of FIG. 1 (i.e., to collect object ID encoded position data), andthus bus 52 includes a GPS unit 54 and an object ID sensor 56. Notspecifically shown are the data link and processor elements of FIG. 2,which as discussed above can be implemented by a GPS unit including suchelements. As shown, ID sensor 56 is disposed proximate a door 58, sothat ID sensor 56 can detect tokens carried by students as they boardand exit the bus. Exemplary (but not limiting) tokens include RFID tags(which can be read automatically) and ID cards including a magneticstrip or optical data (which require the child to swipe the ID cardthrough a reader as they enter the bus). If the bus is equipped withother doors that are used to board or disembark students, another IDsensor can be positioned at the other door. In an exemplary embodiment,once the boarding or disembarkation of students has occurred, the objectID encoded position data can be conveyed to the remote computing deviceof FIG. 2, and the remote computing device can make theboarding/disembarkation information available to school administratorsor parents, either through a website accessible to theadministrator/parent, or by sending the information in an email, a textmessage, a voice message, or an instant message. In an exemplary (butnot limiting embodiment) administrators would have access toboarding/disembarkation data about all students, whereas parents wouldonly be able to access such data about their child. Suchboarding/disembarkation data would be generated from the object IDencoded position data collected at the vehicle, and would define thelocation and time a specific student boarded and/or exited the bus.

As noted above, the concepts disclosed herein also encompass bus 52being configured to implement the method of FIG. 5 (i.e., to usepreviously generated object ID encoded position data to help the busdriver recognize what students should be boarding/exiting the bus atwhich stops). In such an embodiment, bus 52 will require GPS unit 54 (totrack the current position of the bus, so a GPS processor or otherprocessor can compare the current position of the bus with thepreviously generated object ID encoded position data, stored in a memory48 as shown in FIG. 6). Bus 52 will also need to include thedisplay/output device of FIG. 6, to provide a mechanism to inform thedriver which students are associated with a specific bus stop.

If the bus configured to implement the method of FIG. 5 (usingpreviously generated object ID encoded position data to help the busdriver recognize what students should be boarding/exiting the bus atwhich stops) is not intended to also implement the method of FIG. 1(collecting object ID encoded position data while the bus is beingcurrently operated), then the ID sensor and data link to the remotecomputing device shown in FIG. 2 are not required. Customers employingthis technology will likely desire the flexibility of being able toperform both the method of FIG. 1 (collecting object ID encoded positiondata while the bus is being currently operated) and the method of FIG. 5(using previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thebus driver recognize what students should be boarding/exiting the bus atwhich stops), and such buses will need to employ the components of bothFIGS. 2 and 6 (i.e., the GPS unit, the ID sensor, the processor tocombine the GPS data with the object ID data to generate the object IDencoded position data (which may be part of the GPS unit), the data linkto convey the object ID encoded position data to the remote computingdevice, the memory storing the previously generated object ID encodedposition data used to alert the driver which students are associatedwith which bus stops, the processor to monitor the current position ofthe bus and produce an indication/alert when the current position of thebus corresponds to a location correlated to one of the students (notethe same processor combining the current GPS data with the object IDdata can be used, or a separate processor can be used), and the display(or other output) used to alert the driver that the bus is at orapproaching a location at which a particular student will get on or off.

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a delivery truck modified to implementthe concepts disclosed herein, to collect and/or use object ID encodedposition data, where the object interacting with the vehicle is sometype of cargo (including but not limited to a package, a document, anitem of mail, a product, and a piece of equipment) including a tokenthat can be detected by the object identification sensor. Once again,the delivery truck can be configured to implement one or both of themethod of FIG. 1 (collecting object ID encoded position data while thedelivery vehicle is delivering or picking up cargo) and the method ofFIG. 5 (where the operator of the vehicle is using previously generatedobject ID encoded position data to help the delivery driver to deliveror pick up labeled cargo at specified locations). Where the deliverytruck is configured to implement the method of FIG. 1 then the deliverytruck will require the functional elements discussed in connection withFIG. 2 (except the remote computing device, which of course is remotefrom the delivery vehicle). Where the delivery vehicle is configured touse previously generated object ID encoded position data to facilitatedelivery or pick up of cargo at specific locations (generally asdiscussed above in connection with FIG. 5), then the delivery vehiclewill include the functional elements discussed in connection with FIG.6. It should be recognized that the concepts disclosed herein encompassdelivery vehicles that perform both the methods discussed above inconnection with FIGS. 1 and 5, and such delivery vehicles will includethe functional components of both FIGS. 2 and 6 (again, except for theremote computing device).

Referring to FIG. 8, as shown, delivery truck 60 is configured toimplement the method of FIG. 1 (i.e., to collect object ID encodedposition data about cargo being delivered or picked up), and thusdelivery truck 60 includes a GPS unit 62 and one or more object IDsensors 64. Not specifically shown are the data link and processorelements of FIG. 2, which as discussed above can be implemented by a GPSunit including such elements. As shown, ID sensors 64 are disposedproximate a side door 66 and a rear door 68, so that ID sensors 64 candetect tokens attached to cargo 70 being picked up or delivered. Asdiscussed above, many types of token/sensor combinations can beemployed. In at least one embodiment, tokens are RFID tags that canautomatically be read as the cargo passes through one of doors 66 and 68(noting that some delivery vehicles have more or fewer doors, and thespecific location of the door(s) can vary). This automatic sensingfunction should reduce the time required for loading and unloading, byeliminating any manual involvement in the object ID sensing function.Optical codes can also be employed, but the person loading/unloading thecargo would need to ensure the optical code can be scanned by the IDsensor (much in the way a grocery checker must ensure that products areread by the bar code scanner at checkout). As will be discussed below,the concepts disclosed herein also encompass the use of a handheld IDsensor 72, which though functional requires more effort on the part ofthe cargo handler.

If desired, a temperature sensor 69 can be included in the cargo area ofthe delivery truck, to measure the ambient temperature of the cargoarea. The temperature measurement represents additional object data,that will be combined with the object ID and the time and GPS data, togenerate the object ID encoded position data. The temperature sensor, ifpresent, is configured to communicate its data to the GPS unit, or theprocessor responsible for combining the object ID data, the temperaturedata, and the GPS data together to generate the time indexed object IDencoded position data. The temperature data may be important fortemperature sensitive cargo, and collecting such data and combining itwith the object ID encoded position data will enable the deliveryservice to prove to the shipper that the cargo was maintained in thecorrect temperature controlled environment during transit. In a relatedembodiment, the temperature sensor can be incorporated into the object,and the temperature data can be manually entered into the GPSunit/processor during delivery, or acquired using a hand held sensorthat logically communicates that data to the GPS unit/processor forincorporation into the object ID encoded position data.

In an exemplary embodiment, once the loading or unloading of cargo hasoccurred, the object ID encoded position data can be conveyed to theremote computing device of FIG. 2, and the remote computing device canmake the loading/unloading information available to one or more of thedelivery service, the cargo shipper, and the cargo recipient, eitherthrough a website accessible to the parties, or by sending theinformation in an email, a text message, a voice message, or an instantmessage. In an exemplary (but not limiting embodiment) the deliveryservice would have access to pick up/delivery data for all cargo,whereas shippers/recipients would only be able to access such data abouttheir cargo. Such pick up/delivery data would be generated from theobject ID encoded position data collected at the vehicle, and woulddefine the location and time a item of cargo was loaded or unloaded fromthe delivery vehicle. This data can be used to assureshippers/recipients that their cargo was picked up/delivered, and may beused by the delivery service to bill their clients.

As noted above, the concepts disclosed herein also encompass deliverytruck 60 being configured to implement the method of FIG. 5 (i.e., touse previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedelivery driver recognize what cargo should be loaded/unloaded from thedelivery vehicle at which locations). In such an embodiment, deliverytruck 60 will require GPS unit 62 (to track the current position of thevehicle, so a GPS processor or other processor can compare the currentposition of the vehicle with the previously generated object ID encodedposition data, stored in a memory 48 as shown in FIG. 6). Delivery truck60 will also need to include the display/output device of FIG. 6, toprovide a mechanism to inform the driver which cargo is associated witha specific delivery or pick up location.

If delivery truck 60 is configured to implement the method of FIG. 5(using previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedriver recognize what cargo is loaded/unloaded at what location) and isnot intended to also implement the method of FIG. 1 (collecting objectID encoded position data while the delivery vehicle is being currentlyoperated), then the ID sensor and data link to the remote computingdevice shown in FIG. 2 are not required. Customers employing thistechnology will likely desire the flexibility of being able to performboth the method of FIG. 1 (collecting object ID encoded position datawhile the delivery truck being currently operated) and the method ofFIG. 5 (using previously generated object ID encoded position data tohelp the delivery driver recognize what cargo should be loaded/unloadedfrom the vehicle at what location), and such delivery vehicles will needto employ the components of both FIGS. 2 and 6 (i.e., the GPS unit, theID sensor, the processor to combine the GPS data with the object ID datato generate the object ID encoded position data (which may be part ofthe GPS unit), the data link to convey the object ID encoded positiondata to the remote computing device, the memory storing the previouslygenerated object ID encoded position data used to alert the driver whichcargo is associated with which location, the processor to monitor thecurrent position of the delivery vehicle and produce an indication/alertwhen the current position of the delivery vehicle corresponds to alocation correlated to an item of cargo (note the same processorcombining the current GPS data with the object ID data can be used, or aseparate processor can be used), and the display (or other output) usedto alert the driver that the delivery vehicle is at or approaching alocation at which a item of cargo will be delivered or collected.

As noted above, when the method of FIG. 1 is being implemented in thecontext of cargo shipping, instead of equipping the vehicle with IDsensors 64 proximate vehicle doors 66 or 68 to automatically collectobject ID data from the cargo, handheld ID sensor 72 can be manuallyused by a cargo handler (such as the driver) when loading or unloadingthe cargo. The handheld sensor must at some point be logically coupledwith GPS 62 so that the object ID encoded position data can begenerated. This can be achieved by using a physical connection, or awireless data link. This embodiment may be less expensive (providing ahandheld unit may be more cost effective that adding ID sensors to thedoors), but reduces efficiency by requiring the cargo handler to performan additional function.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a refuse truck (or recycling truck)modified to implement the concepts disclosed herein, to collect and/oruse object ID encoded position data, where the object interacting withthe vehicle is a refuse or recycling container whose contents istransferred from the container to the refuse truck. In at least oneembodiment, the token read by the ID sensor is attached to the containeritself, although it should be understood that the concepts disclosedherein encompass embodiments in which the token being detected by the IDsensor is attached to some other physical object or structure at thelocation where the container is stored. Once again, the refuse truck canbe configured to implement one or both of the method of FIG. 1(collecting object ID encoded position data while the refuse truck iscollecting refuse or recyclables) and the method of FIG. 5 (where theoperator of the vehicle is using previously generated object ID encodedposition data to help the refuse truck driver to recognize whatcontainers at what locations need to be emptied).

Where the refuse truck is configured to implement the method of FIG. 1the refuse truck will require the functional elements discussed inconnection with FIG. 2 (except the remote computing device, which ofcourse is remote from the refuse truck). Where the refuse truck isconfigured to use previously generated object ID encoded position datato facilitate collection of refuse/recyclables from specific containersat specific locations (generally as discussed above in connection withFIG. 5), then the refuse truck will include the functional elementsdiscussed in connection with FIG. 6. It should be recognized that theconcepts disclosed herein encompass refuse trucks that perform both ofthe methods discussed above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 5, and suchrefuse trucks will include the functional components of both FIGS. 2 and6 (again, except for the remote computing device).

Referring to FIG. 9, as shown, refuse truck 74 is configured toimplement the method of FIG. 1 (i.e., to collect object ID encodedposition data about containers from which recyclables or refuse iscollected), and thus refuse truck 60 includes a GPS unit 76 and anobject ID sensors 78, which as shown is disposed on a containermanipulator 86 (which lifts and rotates a container 82, such that therefuse falls into a cargo area 88). Note the container manipulator neednot be mounted on the front of the vehicle, as other containermanipulator positions (such as at the sides or rear of the vehicle) areknown. Not specifically shown are the data link and processor elementsof FIG. 2, which as discussed above can be implemented by a GPS unitincluding such elements. The position of ID sensors 78 is such that theID sensor can detect a token 80 that uniquely identifies container 82automatically as container manipulator 86 engages the container. Asdiscussed above, many types of token/sensor combinations can beemployed. In at least one embodiment, tokens are RFID tags that canautomatically be read as container manipulator 86 engages the container.This automatic sensing function should reduce the time required foridentifying the object, by eliminating any manual involvement in theobject ID sensing function. Optical codes can also be employed, but suchoptical codes can become obscured by dirt and grime, and may be lesssuitable for this application. As noted above, other embodimentsencompassed by the concepts herein will place the token on a structureor object near the container, rather than the container itself, and insuch embodiments the ID sensor may be positioned differently. Theconcepts disclosed herein also encompass embodiments in which thevehicle operator uses a handheld ID sensor to read a token, which thoughfunctional requires more effort on the part of the operator. If desired,a weight sensor 84 can be included on container manipulator 86, tomeasure the full weight and emptied weight of the container, to enablethe weight of the refuse unloaded from the container to be measured(note that such a weight sensor could also be included in cargo area 88,to measure the weight of the material in the cargo area before and aftera container is emptied). The weight measurement represents additionalobject data, that will be combined with the object ID and the time andGPS data, to generate the object ID encoded position data.

In an exemplary embodiment, once the container has been emptied, theobject ID encoded position data can be conveyed to the remote computingdevice of FIG. 2, and the remote computing device can make the containeremptying information available to one or more of the refuse removalservice and the client, either through a website accessible to theparties, or by sending the information in an email, a text message, avoice message, or an instant message. In an exemplary (but not limitingembodiment) the refuse removal service would have access to pick up datafor all containers, whereas clients would only be able to access suchdata about their containers. Such pick up data would be generated fromthe object ID encoded position data collected at the vehicle, and woulddefine the location and time a container was emptied, and the weight ofthe material removed, if the weight data was collected. This data can beused to assure clients that their refuse was picked up, and may be usedby the refuse removal service to bill their clients.

As noted above, the concepts disclosed herein also encompass refusetruck 74 being configured to implement the method of FIG. 5 (i.e., touse previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedriver recognize what containers should be emptied at which locations).In such an embodiment, refuse truck 74 will require GPS unit 76 (totrack the current position of the vehicle, so a GPS processor or otherprocessor can compare the current position of the vehicle with thepreviously generated object ID encoded position data, stored in a memory48 as shown in FIG. 6). Refuse truck 74 will also need to include thedisplay/output device of FIG. 6, to provide a mechanism to inform thedriver what containers are associated with a specific service location.

If refuse truck 74 is configured to implement the method of FIG. 5(using previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedriver recognize what containers are emptied at what location) and isnot intended to also implement the method of FIG. 1 (collecting objectID encoded position data while the refuse truck is being currentlyoperated), then the ID sensor and data link to the remote computingdevice shown in FIG. 2 are not required. Customers employing thistechnology will likely desire the flexibility of being able to performboth the method of FIG. 1 (collecting object ID encoded position datawhile the refuse truck being currently operated) and the method of FIG.5 (using previously generated object ID encoded position data to helpthe delivery driver recognize what containers should be emptied at whatlocation), and such refuse trucks will need to employ the components ofboth FIGS. 2 and 6 (i.e., the GPS unit, the ID sensor, the processor tocombine the GPS data with the object ID data to generate the object IDencoded position data (which may be part of the GPS unit), the data linkto convey the object ID encoded position data to the remote computingdevice, the memory storing the previously generated object ID encodedposition data used to alert the driver about which containers areassociated with which locations, the processor to monitor the currentposition of the vehicle and produce an indication/alert when the currentposition of the refuse truck corresponds to a location correlated to alabeled container (note the same processor combining the current GPSdata with the object ID data can be used, or a separate processor can beused), and the display (or other output) used to alert the driver thatthe refuse truck is at or approaching a location at which a containerwill be emptied.

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a tanker truck modified to implementthe concepts disclosed herein, to collect and/or use object ID encodedposition data, where the object interacting with the vehicle is a bulkmaterial storage container (such as a home heating oil storage tank, apropane gas fuel storage tank, or a compressed gas storage tank,understanding that such types of storage tanks are intended to beexemplary, rather than limiting), where a product or bulk material istransferred from the tanker truck to the storage tank. In at least oneembodiment, the token read by the ID sensor is attached to the storagetank itself, although it should be understood that the conceptsdisclosed herein encompass embodiments in which the token being detectedby the ID sensor is attached to some other physical object or structureat the location where the storage tank is stored. Once again, the tankertruck can be configured to implement one or both of the method of FIG. 1(collecting object ID encoded position data while the tanker truck isout delivering bulk materials to storage tanks) and the method of FIG. 5(where the operator of the tanker truck is using previously generatedobject ID encoded position data to help the tanker truck driver torecognize what storage tanks at which locations need to be filled).

Where the tanker truck is configured to implement the method of FIG. 1,the tanker truck will require the functional elements discussed inconnection with FIG. 2 (except the remote computing device, which ofcourse is remote from the tanker truck). Where the tanker truck isconfigured to use previously generated object ID encoded position datato facilitate delivery of a bulk material to a specific storage tank atspecific locations (generally as discussed above in connection with FIG.5), then the tanker truck will include the functional elements discussedin connection with FIG. 6. It should be recognized that the conceptsdisclosed herein encompass tanker trucks that perform both the methodsdiscussed above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 5, and such tanker truckswill include the functional components of both FIGS. 2 and 6 (again,except for the remote computing device).

Referring to FIG. 10, as shown tanker truck 90 is configured toimplement the method of FIG. 1 (i.e., to collect object ID encodedposition data about storage tanks to which the tanker truck isdelivering a bulk material), and thus tanker truck 90 includes a GPSunit 92 and an object ID sensor 94, which as shown is disposed on adistal end of a product delivery hose 96 (which is used to transfer thebulk material from the tanker truck to a storage tank 100, which islabeled with a token 98). Note as shown, the ID sensor (disposed on thedistal end of the delivery hose) and the token on the storage tank(disposed proximate an inlet 102 to the storage tank) will be in closeproximity to each other when the delivery hose is coupled to the tankinlet. Thus, the position of ID sensors 94 is such that the ID sensorcan detect token 98 (which uniquely identifies storage tank 100automatically as the delivery hose engages the tank inlet). As discussedabove, many types of token/sensor combinations can be employed. In atleast one embodiment, tokens are RFID tags that can automatically beread as the delivery hose engages the tank inlet. Because the bulkmaterial may be flammable, care needs to be taken that the IDsensor/token interaction does not generate a spark or static electricitythat could act as an ignition source. For bulk transfer of flammablematerial, grounding is routinely performed to minimize such risks. Thisautomatic sensing function should reduce the time required foridentifying the object, by eliminating any manual involvement in theobject ID sensing function. Optical codes can also be employed, but suchoptical codes can become obscured by dirt and grime, and may be lesssuitable for this application. As noted above, other embodimentsencompassed by the concepts herein will place the token on a structureor object near the storage tank, rather than the container itself, andin such embodiments the ID sensor may be positioned differently. Theconcepts disclosed herein also encompass embodiments in which the tanktruck operator uses a handheld ID sensor to read a token, which thoughfunctional requires more effort on the part of the operator.

If desired, a volume delivery sensor 104 can be included on the tankertruck, to measure the volume of bulk material being delivered. Thevolume measurement represents additional object data, that will becombined with the object ID and the time and GPS data, to generate theobject ID encoded position data. Referring to FIG. 10 and itsrelationship to the elements of FIG. 2, FIG. 10 does not specificallyshow the data link and processor elements of FIG. 2, which as discussedabove can be implemented by a GPS unit including such elements.

In an exemplary embodiment, once the storage tank has been filled, theobject ID encoded position data can be conveyed to the remote computingdevice of FIG. 2, and the remote computing device can make the tankfilling information available to one or more of the tanker truck serviceand the client, either through a website accessible to the parties, orby sending the information in an email, a text message, a voice message,or an instant message. In an exemplary (but not limiting embodiment) thetanker truck service would have access to filling data for all storagetanks, whereas clients would only be able to access such data abouttheir storage tanks. Such tank filling data would be generated from theobject ID encoded position data collected at the tanker truck, and woulddefine the location and time a storage tank was filled, and the volumeof the material transferred, if the volume data was collected. This datacan be used to assure clients that their tank was filled, and may beused by the tanker truck service to bill their clients.

As noted above, the concepts disclosed herein also encompass tankertruck 90 being configured to implement the method of FIG. 5 (i.e., touse previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedriver recognize what storage tanks at which locations should befilled). In such an embodiment, tanker truck 90 will require GPS unit 92(to track the current position of the vehicle, so a GPS processor orother processor can compare the current position of the vehicle with thepreviously generated object ID encoded position data, stored in a memory48 as shown in FIG. 6). Tanker truck 90 will also need to include thedisplay/output device of FIG. 6, to provide a mechanism to inform thedriver what storage tanks are associated with a specific servicelocation.

If tanker truck 90 is configured to implement the method of FIG. 5(using previously generated object ID encoded position data to help thedriver recognize what storage tanks are filled at what location) and isnot intended to also implement the method of FIG. 1 (collecting objectID encoded position data while the tanker truck is being currentlyoperated), then the ID sensor and data link to the remote computingdevice shown in FIG. 2 are not required. Customers employing thistechnology will likely desire the flexibility of being able to performboth the method of FIG. 1 (collecting object ID encoded position datawhile the tanker truck being currently operated) and the method of FIG.5 (using previously generated object ID encoded position data to helpthe tanker truck driver recognize what storage tanks should be filled atwhat location), and such tanker trucks will need to employ thecomponents of both FIGS. 2 and 6 (i.e., the GPS unit, the ID sensor, theprocessor to combine the GPS data with the object ID data to generatethe object ID encoded position data (which may be part of the GPS unit),the data link to convey the object ID encoded position data to theremote computing device, the memory storing the previously generatedobject ID encoded position data used to alert the driver about whichstorage tanks are associated with which locations, the processor tomonitor the current position of the vehicle and produce anindication/alert when the current position of the tanker truckcorresponds to a location correlated to a labeled storage tank (note thesame processor combining the current GPS data with the object ID datacan be used, or a separate processor can be used), and the display (orother output) used to alert the driver that the tanker truck is at orapproaching a location at which a storage tank will be filled.

With respect to any of the embodiments of FIGS. 7-10, it should berecognized that the relative location of the GPS unit in the vehicle asshown in the Figure is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting.

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing the basic functionalcomponents used to implement a hand held identification sensor, whichcan be used by a vehicle operator to collect object identification data,as shown in FIG. 8. A hand held ID sensor 110 includes a plurality offunctional components that are included in portable ID sensor 110,either on or inside a housing 112. A central processing unit (CPU) 120comprises the controller for portable ID sensor 110 and is coupledbi-directionally to a memory 116 that includes both random access memory(RAM) and read only memory (ROM). Memory 116 is used for storing data inRAM and machine instructions in ROM that control the functionality ofCPU 120 when executed by it. CPU 120 is also coupled to ID sensor 114,and is configured to receive operator input from user controls 122. Inaddition, CPU 120 provides text and graphics to display 124 for theprompts and other messages, and menu items and options from which theoperator can select, using controls 122.

After the operator has used portable ID sensor 110 to identify eachlabeled object, the operator can transmit the object ID data that havebeen collected to the vehicle GPS or the processor that will combine theobject ID data with the GPS data to generate the object ID encodedposition data, using a data link 118 (in an exemplary embodiment thedata link employs an RF transmission, though hardwired and otherwireless type data links can be used).

As noted above, the tokens that are affixed to the objects to beidentified can be of several different types, depending upon the type ofsensor 114 that is included on portable ID sensor 110. In a preferredform of one of the concepts disclosed herein, the token that ispreferably employed is an RFID tag that is attached with a fastener oran appropriate adhesive to the object (or is carried by a passenger, oris attached to a location proximate the object, generally as discussedabove). One type of RFID tag that is suitable for this purpose is theWORLDTAG™ token that is sold by Sokymat Corporation. This tag is excitedby an RF transmission from portable ID sensor 110 via an antenna insensor 114. In response to the excitation energy received, the RFID tagmodifies the RF energy that is received from the antenna in sensor 114in a manner that specifically identifies the component associated withthe RFID tag, and the modified signal is detected by sensor 46.

An alternative type of token that can also be used in one of theconcepts disclosed herein is an IBUTTON™ computer chip, which is armoredin a stainless steel housing and is readily affixed to an object orlocation. The IBUTTON chip is programmed with JAVA™ instructions toprovide a recognition signal when interrogated by a signal received froma nearby transmitter, such as from an antenna in sensor 114. The signalproduced by the IBUTTON chip is received by sensor 114, which determinesthe type of component associated with a token. This type of token isless desirable since it is more expensive, although the programinstructions that it executes can provide greater functionality.

Yet another type of token that might be used is an optical bar code inwhich a sequence of lines of varying width or other optical patternsencode light reflected from the bar code tag. The encoded reflectedlight is received by sensor 114, which is then read by an opticaldetector. Bar code technology is well understood by those of ordinaryskill in the art and readily adapted for identifying a particular typeof component and location of the component on a vehicle or other systemor apparatus. One drawback to the use of a bar code tag as a token isthat the bar code can be covered with dirt or grime that must be cleanedbefore the sequence of bar code lines or other pattern can be properlyread. If the bar code is applied to a plasticized adhesive strip, it canreadily be mounted to any surface and then easily cleaned with a rag orother appropriate material.

Yet another type of token usable in one of the concepts disclosed hereinis a magnetic strip in which a varying magnetic flux encodes dataidentifying the particular component associated with the token. Suchmagnetic strips are often used in access cards that are read by readersmounted adjacent to doors or in an elevator that provides access to abuilding. However, in this aspect of the concepts disclosed herein, themagnetic flux reader comprises sensor 114. The data encoded on such atoken are readily read as the portable device is brought into proximityof the varying magnetic flux encoded strip comprising the token.

As yet another alternative, an active token can be employed thatconforms to the BLUETOOTH™ specification for short distance datatransfer between computing devices using an RF signal.

In at least one embodiment, the interaction between the vehicle and alabeled object is an inspection of the object. The vehicle is used toconvey the inspector to the labeled object. A sensor attached to thevehicle or in a handheld device is used to collect the object ID data,which is combined with the position data collected by the vehicle togenerate the object ID encoded position data, which can be used toverify that the inspector was proximate the specific object at aspecific time. Objects that can be labeled for inspection include, butare not limited to, buildings, bridges, utility vaults, traffic signals,traffic signs, cell phone towers, transformers, pipelines, utilitypoles, and construction equipment.

In at least one embodiment, the interaction between the vehicle and alabeled object does not include loading the object onto the vehicle orremoving the object from the vehicle. Thus, in the claims that follow,it should be recognized that support exists for a negative claimlimitation to that effect. FIGS. 9 and 10 relate to embodiments wherematerial is loaded from a container into the vehicle, or from thevehicle into the container, without the container (the labeled object)being loaded onto or being removed from the vehicle. Another type ofinteraction between a labeled object and the vehicle includes thevehicle being used to transport an inspector to the location of alabeled object that requires an inspection. In such an embodiment,inspection of the object will not result in the object being loaded ontoor being removed from the vehicle. In each of these interactions, objectID data is collected from the object, which is combined with theposition data collected by the vehicle to generate the object ID encodedposition data.

In at least one embodiment, the interaction between the vehicle and alabeled object involves loading or unloading the object from a cargoarea in the vehicle that is not suitable for passengers. Thus, in theclaims that follow, it should be recognized that support exists for anegative claim limitation to that effect. FIG. 8 relates to anembodiment where objects are loaded or unloaded from a non-passengercargo area.

Although the concepts disclosed herein have been described in connectionwith the preferred form of practicing them and modifications thereto,those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that many othermodifications can be made thereto within the scope of the claims thatfollow. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of these conceptsin any way be limited by the above description, but instead bedetermined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

1. A method for generating object identification (ID) encoded positiondata from a vehicle equipped with a geographical position system, themethod comprising the steps of: (a) collecting geographical positiondata from the vehicle during vehicle operation, the geographicalposition data being time indexed; (b) collecting object ID data from anobject interacting with the vehicle during operation of the vehicle, theobject ID data uniquely identifying the object, wherein the step ofcollecting object ID data from an object interacting with the vehicleduring operation of the vehicle comprises at least one of the followingsteps: (i) automatically scanning the object as it enters a cargo areaof the vehicle not suitable for passengers using an identificationsensor attached to the vehicle proximate an entry into the cargo area;(ii) automatically scanning the object as it exits the cargo area of thevehicle not suitable for passengers using an identification sensorattached to the vehicle proximate an entry into the cargo area; (iii)using an identification sensor attached to a material handling componentused to manipulate the object; (iv) using an identification sensorattached to a material handling component used to interact with theobject; and (v) scanning the object using a handheld device including anidentification sensor and a wireless data link, the handheld devicebeing configured to wirelessly transmit object ID data to a processordisposed in the vehicle, the processor being configured to combine theobject ID data with the position data; and (c) automatically combiningthe object ID data and the geographical position data together at thevehicle to produce object ID encoded position data.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising the step of conveying the object ID encodedposition data to a remote computing device.
 3. The method of claim 1,further comprising the steps of: (a) collecting additional object datafrom the object during operation of the vehicle; and (b) including theadditional object data in the object ID encoded position data such thatthe additional object data is also time indexed.
 4. The method of claim3, wherein the object is a container, and the step of collecting theadditional object data comprises the step of collecting at least one of:(a) a weight of material transferred into the container from the vehicleduring the interaction between the container and the vehicle; (b) aweight of material transferred into the vehicle from the containerduring the interaction between the container and the vehicle; (c) avolume of material transferred into the container from the vehicleduring the interaction between the container and the vehicle; and (d) avolume of material transferred into the vehicle from the containerduring the interaction between the container and the vehicle.
 5. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: (a) as the vehicleis operating, comparing the current position of the vehicle with anintended destination associated with each object on the vehicle; and (b)whenever the current position of the vehicle corresponds to the intendeddestination of an object on the vehicle, alerting the driver of thevehicle that the intended destination has been reached.
 6. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising the steps of: (a) as the vehicle isoperating, comparing the current position of the vehicle with apredefined location where an object the vehicle is to interact with isdisposed; and (b) whenever the current position of the vehiclecorresponds with the predefined location, alerting the driver of thevehicle that the predefined location has been reached.
 7. A geographicalposition system for use in a vehicle, the geographical position systemcomprising: (a) a housing; (b) a position sensing component forcollecting geographical position data from the vehicle during vehicleoperation, the geographical position data being time indexed; (c) afirst data port for receiving object identification (ID) data from anobject interacting with the vehicle during operation of the vehicle, theobject ID data uniquely identifying the object; (d) a processor forcombining the object ID data and the geographical position data togetherto produce object ID encoded position data; and (e) a data link forconveying the object ID encoded position data to a remote computingdevice.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the processor is configured toinclude additional object data in the object ID encoded position datasuch that the additional object data is also time indexed.
 9. The systemof claim 7, wherein the data link comprises a wireless data link, andthe processor is configured to use the data link to convey the object IDencoded position data to the remote computer in real-time.
 10. Thesystem of claim 7, further comprising a memory storing a plurality ofrecords, each record associating a uniquely labeled object with aspecific location, and wherein the processor is configured to alert thedriver of the vehicle whenever the vehicle arrives at a specificlocation associated with one of the uniquely identified objects.
 11. Asystem for analyzing object identification (ID) encoded position datafrom a vehicle, the system comprising: (a) an object identificationsensor for identifying a uniquely labeled object interacting with thevehicle during operation of the vehicle, and in response theretogenerating object ID data; and (b) a geographical position system foruse in the vehicle, the geographical position system including: (i) aposition sensing component for collecting geographical position datafrom the vehicle during vehicle operation, the geographical positiondata being time indexed; (ii) a first data port for receiving object IDdata from the object identification sensor during operation of thevehicle; (iii) a processor for combining the object ID data and thegeographical position data together to produce object ID encodedposition data; and (iv) a data link for conveying the object ID encodedposition data to an external computing device.
 12. The system of claim11, further comprising a remote computing device spaced apart from thevehicle and configured to receive the object ID encoded position datavia the data link, the remote computing device including a memory forstoring machine instructions and a processor, the machine instructions,when implemented by a processor, enabling a user to access the object IDencoded position data for the vehicle, such that the object ID encodedposition data can be analyzed to determine at least one characteristicof the interaction between the vehicle and the uniquely labeled object.13. The system of claim 12, wherein the uniquely labeled object is acontainer, and the remote computing device is configured to useadditional object data included in the object ID encoded position datato implement at least one of the following functions: (a) determine avolume of material transferred into the container from the vehicleduring the interaction between the container and the vehicle; (b)determine a volume of material transferred into the vehicle from thecontainer during the interaction between the container and the vehicle;(c) determine a weight of material transferred into the container fromthe vehicle during the interaction between the container and thevehicle; and (d) determine a weight of material transferred into thevehicle from the container during the interaction between the containerand the vehicle.
 14. A method for facilitating the interaction of avehicle with a plurality of uniquely labeled objects during theoperation of the vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: (a)providing a data set that correlates a specific geographical positionwith each uniquely labeled object; (b) determining a currentgeographical position of the vehicle as the vehicle is being operated;and (c) when the current geographical position of the vehiclecorresponds to one of the specific geographical positions associatedwith one of the uniquely labeled objects, automatically providing anoutput to the operator of the vehicle, the output identifying theuniquely labeled object correlated with the vehicle's currentgeographical position.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the step ofautomatically providing the output to the operator of the vehiclecomprises at least one step selected from a group of steps consistingof: (a) providing the identity of a container that is to be serviced atthe specific geographical position, the container being one of theuniquely labeled objects; (b) providing the identity of a container thatis to be removed from the vehicle at the specific geographical position,the container being one of the uniquely labeled objects; (c) providingthe identity of a container that is to be loaded onto the vehicle at thespecific geographical position, the container being one of the uniquelylabeled objects; and (d) displaying the identity of each uniquelylabeled object correlated with the specific geographical position to theoperator of the vehicle.
 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the step ofautomatically providing the output to the operator of the vehiclecomprises at least one step selected from a group of steps consistingof: (a) providing the identity of a passenger that is to be loaded ontothe vehicle at the specific geographical position, the passenger beingone of the uniquely labeled objects; and (b) providing the identity of apassenger that is to disembark from the vehicle at the specificgeographical position, the passenger being one of the uniquely labeledobjects.
 17. A method for using object identification (ID) encodedposition data from a vehicle equipped with a geographical positionsystem and an object ID sensor to determine at least one characteristicof an interaction between a uniquely labeled object and the vehicle, themethod comprising the steps of: (a) providing object ID encoded positiondata collected during operation of the vehicle, the object ID encodedposition data including object ID data uniquely identifying eachuniquely labeled object interacting with the vehicle during operation ofthe vehicle, additional object data collected with the object ID data,and geographical position data defining a relative location of thevehicle during operation of the vehicle, the object ID data and thegeographical position data being time indexed; and (b) analyzing theobject ID encoded position data using the additional object datacollected with the object ID data to determine at least one elementselected from a group of elements consisting of: (i) a volume ofmaterial transferred into a uniquely identifiable container from thevehicle during the interaction between that container and the vehicle;(ii) a volume of material transferred into the vehicle from the uniquelyidentifiable container during the interaction between that container andthe vehicle; (iii) a weight of material transferred into the uniquelyidentifiable container from the vehicle during the interaction betweenthat container and the vehicle; (iv) a weight of material transferredinto the vehicle from the uniquely identifiable container during theinteraction between that container and the vehicle; (v) a temperature ofthe object during the interaction between that object and the vehicle;(vi) a temperature of a cargo portion of the vehicle into which theobject is deposited during the interaction between that object and thevehicle; and (vii) a temperature of a cargo portion of the vehicle fromwhich the object is removed during the interaction between that objectand the vehicle.
 18. A method for generating object identification (ID)encoded position data from a vehicle equipped with a geographicalposition system, the method comprising the steps of: (a) collectinggeographical position data from the vehicle during vehicle operation,the geographical position data being time indexed; (b) collecting objectID data from an object interacting with the vehicle during operation ofthe vehicle, the object ID data uniquely identifying the object, whereinthe interaction between the object and the vehicle does not includeloading the object onto the vehicle or removing the object from thevehicle; and (c) automatically combining the object ID data and thegeographical position data together at the vehicle to produce object IDencoded position data.
 19. A method for generating object identification(ID) encoded position data from a vehicle equipped with a geographicalposition system, the method comprising the steps of: (a) collectinggeographical position data from the vehicle during vehicle operation,the geographical position data being time indexed; (b) collecting objectID data from an object interacting with the vehicle during operation ofthe vehicle, the object ID data uniquely identifying the object, whereinthe interaction between the object and the vehicle comprises at leastone interaction selected from a group of interactions consisting of: (i)a first interaction wherein a material is transferred from the vehicleinto a container separate from the vehicle at a specific location,wherein the container remains at the specific location after the vehicledeparts; (ii) a second interaction wherein a material is transferredfrom a container to the vehicle, the container being disposed at aspecific location and being separate from the vehicle, wherein thecontainer remains at the specific location after the vehicle departs;and (iii) a third interaction wherein an inspection of the object isperformed at a specific location, the object being separate from thevehicle, wherein the object that was inspected remains at the specificlocation after the vehicle departs; and (c) automatically combining theobject ID data and the geographical position data together at thevehicle to produce object ID encoded position data.
 20. A method fortraining an operator of a vehicle that interacts with a plurality ofuniquely labeled objects during the operation of the vehicle, the methodcomprising the steps of: (a) providing a data set that correlates aspecific geographical position with each uniquely labeled object; (b)determining a current geographical position of the vehicle as thevehicle is being operated; and (c) when the current geographicalposition of the vehicle corresponds to one of the specific geographicalpositions associated with one of the uniquely labeled objects,automatically providing an output to the operator of the vehicle, theoutput identifying the uniquely labeled object correlated with thevehicle's current geographical position and the interaction required.21. The method of claim 20, wherein the step of automatically providingthe output to the operator of the vehicle comprises at least one stepselected from a group of steps consisting of: (a) providing the identityof an object that is to be serviced at the specific geographicalposition, that object being one of the uniquely labeled objects; (b)providing the identity of a container that is to be removed from thevehicle at the specific geographical position, the container being oneof the uniquely labeled objects; (c) providing the identity of acontainer that is to be loaded onto the vehicle at the specificgeographical position, the container being one of the uniquely labeledobjects; (d) displaying the identity of each uniquely labeled objectcorrelated with the specific geographical position to the operator ofthe vehicle; and (e) providing the identity of an object that is to beinspected at the specific geographical position, that object being oneof the uniquely labeled objects.
 22. The method of claim 20, wherein thestep of automatically providing the output to the operator of thevehicle comprises at least one step selected from a group of stepsconsisting of: (a) providing the identity of a passenger that is to beloaded onto the vehicle at the specific geographical position, thepassenger being one of the uniquely labeled objects; and (b) providingthe identity of a passenger that is to disembark from the vehicle at thespecific geographical position, the passenger being one of the uniquelylabeled objects.
 23. A method for generating object identification (ID)encoded position data from a vehicle equipped with a geographicalposition system, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing aposition sensing component for collecting geographical position datafrom the vehicle during vehicle operation, the geographical positiondata being time indexed, the position sensing component comprising: (i)a position sensor configured to generate geographical position dataduring operation of the vehicle; (ii) a first data port for receivingobject identification (ID) data from an object interacting with thevehicle during operation of the vehicle, the object ID data uniquelyidentifying the object; (iii) a processor for combining the object IDdata and the geographical position data together to produce object IDencoded position data; and (iv) a data link for conveying the object IDencoded position data to a remote computing device; (b) collectinggeographical position data from the vehicle during vehicle operation,the geographical position data being time indexed; (c) collecting objectID data from an object interacting with the vehicle during operation ofthe vehicle, the object ID data uniquely identifying the object; (d)introducing the object ID data into the position sensing component usingthe first data port; and (e) using the processor in the position sensingcomponent to automatically combining the object ID data and thegeographical position data together to produce object ID encodedposition data.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first data portcomprises a wireless data port.